INSIDE BINGHAMTON UNIVERSITY

Link recognized as simulation pioneer at conference

By : Katie Ellis

Edwin A. Link, inventor of the flight simulator, was honored along with two other pioneers of the simulation industry during opening ceremonies for the 25th annual Interservice/Industry Training, Simulation and Education Conference in Orlando, Florida earlier this week. Link was recognized as a simulation pioneer during the inaugural event for the award.

Binghamton University’s Watson School of Engineering and Applied Science partnered with Empire State Development Corp. and several local industries to showcase Greater Binghamton’s high-tech simulation skills during the conference.

“This recognition means that Ed’s legacy as father of the simulation industry lives on even after his death more than 20 years ago,” said Marilyn Link, Link’s sister and special advisor to the Link Foundation. “And it’s fitting that the conference participants include so many from Greater Binghamton, including L-3 Communications-Link Simulation and Training.”
Link’s position as inventor of the flight simulator has also been honored through his inductions into the Inventors, Aviation and Air Force halls of fame.

With strong ties to the University, Link was honored for distinguished citizenship by the Harpur Forum in 1978, and in 1981 received an honorary doctorate from Binghamton University.

Link and his wife, Marion, donated the Link Pipe Organ to the University in 1973 and in 1977 established the Link Professorship in Organ to develop and strengthen cultural ties between the community and University through teaching and performance. The Links also enabled the University to purchase the Schuke Organ, designed for the Anderson Center for the Arts, through the Link Professorship Endowment.